Aria TS/Westbury Custom/Vox 24 Guitars

[tony1852]

All of these guitars look very similar, and some models share some common features with some of the BC Rich neck guitars I've had. Some of these older MIJ guitars look pretty awesome, and I image the quality is pretty good. Anyone have any of these or played before? If so, how do they compare to the higher end Agiles, like the AL-3200MCC, in terms of feel and build?

[Gergo]

I never had an Aria TS series guitar, but I own an RS-750 and an RS-X70, which is what the TS series mutated into. Both are excellent Matsumoku-made neck-thru's. I would say that the quality is a little higher than the Agile AL-3200 (I also own these as well) simply because I think the fretwork is a little better, and the stock pickups, and sound options are definitely better. Hope this helps

[tony1852]

it sure does, thanks! are those guitars gibson or fender scale?

[chimi42]

My number 1 guitar - far and way is my Westbury Custom. Mine has a special meaning because i was looking for it for 4 years before i found one. My wife ended up buying it for me as a Christmas present. The reason i wanted one is because i always like the look of the Ovation GP guitars but could never afford/bring myself to pay close to $2k for one.

I would say it's above the Agile line (as nice as they are). Mine is a nice piece of wood (mahogany?) and is what i would lump into the 'fretless wonder' category with super low frets that are fast. The neck is on the slimmer side with nice ebony fretboard. Throw in a 7 way switch for single coil,in phase, out of phase options and really well balanced Dimarzio Duel Sound pickups i can't ask for much more.

These can be had in the $400-600 price range which is about the same as the new agile doublecuts. I think based on electronics, the neck (though that can be very personal), and tone options the Westbury wins out. I tend to see the Vox 24s much less frequently and they seem to command closer to the $1k range when you do see them.

[tony1852]

Been looking for a Westbury Custom for several weeks. If I could find one for $400-$600 I'd jump on it, much to my wife's chagrin. I definitely don't need another guitar, but this one definitely checks all the boxes. Thanks chimi!!

[mikeswashburn]

I have a Westbury custom that is identical to yours, I've had it for nearly 30 years and i feel the same as you about the neck and the sound capabilities. I think a luthier friend of mine had told me they were made of walnut or mahogany.